BENNINGTON — Helen A. (Mercier) Dittmeier, 85, died Thursday, Nov. 15, 2012, at Centers for Living and Rehabilitation in Bennington.

She was born Oct. 29, 1927, in Bennington, the daughter of Heli J. “Harry” and Alice M. (Reilly) Mercier.

She graduated in 1945 from Burr & Burton Seminary and in 1947 from St. Joseph’s Business College.

Mrs. Dittmeier was a secretary for a small business in Florham Park, N.J.

She was a member of Catholic Daughters of the Americas Court of St. Rita #894, the Rosary Society at Notre Dame of Mount Carmel Church in Cedar Knolls, N.J., and at Lady of the Mountain Church in Long Valley, N.J., and the Taconic Grange.

Survivors include her husband of 60 years, Howard Dittmeier, and a daughter, Nannette Lowary, both of North Bennington; a grandson and granddaughter; a sister, Elinor Hyjek of Shaftsbury; 15 nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her twin, Dorothy Reilly, in 2005.

The funeral will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 30, at Sacred Heart St. Francis de Sales Church.

Burial will be at a later date in Dellwood Cemetery, Manchester.

Memorial contributions may be made to Bennington Coalition for the Homeless or Second Chance Animal Shelter, in care of Mahar & Son Funeral Home, 628 Main St., Bennington, VT 05201.